Nikki Cascone

Nikki Cascone 

Under the diminutive toque of beautiful 5’5” celebrity chef Nikki Cascone is a true culinary maven with the fearlessness, instinct and sensibility of a keen businesswoman.  A chef, sommelier and restaurateur, Nikki’s valued education and experience have been her focus throughout her career as she has sought to conquer every possible skill-set needed in the restaurant business.  After many years of preparation, Nikki and husband-partner Brad Grossman open their restaurant “Octavia’s Porch” celebrating their heritage - global Jewish cuisine for a modern palate, a cuisine that they feel holds historical and cultural relevance to them and many New Yorkers but is underrepresented in today’s current culinary landscape. 

Nikki’s passion for the culinary industry sparked at the early age of 14 when she worked at a pork store in Staten Island, New York. Born and raised in one of the most exciting restaurant cities in the world, Nikki sought many more culinary opportunities, working in the front of house hosting, bartending and managing.  She soon sought a culinary degree, enrolling at the School of Culinary Arts in Atlanta, Georgia where she began building a stronger foundation in culinary technique.

Following graduation, Nikki worked for several years within the restaurant groups of Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Shaun Doty and Anne Quatrano – all James Beard award-winning chefs. Having gained further understanding of the many elements that complete a dining experience, Nikki turned her attention to the art of wine and food pairings and achieved certification from both The Sterling Vineyards School of Service and Hospitality and the American Sommelier Association.

“Wine is such a large part of the dining experience. To say I don’t have knowledge about wines and pairings is to say I don’t understand how to give the diner a full experience,” says Nikki. “Octavia’s Porch is a full dining experience because I am involved in every aspect.”